Otolaryngologic management of dizziness in the older patient

Studies report that dizziness is the most common presenting symptom in olde r patients who seek primary care. To understand the causes of dizziness, wh ich is one of the major risk factors in causing falls in the older populati on, basic anatomy and physiology are reviewed in this article. Age-specific histopathologic changes occur in the labyrinth of the inner ear. To displa y evidence of the patient's symptoms, evaluation must include a comprehensi ve history, neurotologic examination and diagnostic testing. There are comm on disorders associated with dizziness; thus, management depends on the cau se. Once a diagnosis is secured, treatment is instituted based on sound med ical principles.